Big Moe, RIP

Local legend and Screwed Up Click founding member Big Moe passed away yesterday, about ten days after suffering a heart attack. The hefty rapper, born Kenneth Moore, was 33 years old.

A graduate of Yates High School and a former football star, Moore’s hits included “Purple Stuff,” “Mann!,” “Barre Baby,” and “Just a Dog.” He was among the most musically gifted rappers in the South, capable of singing his own hooks on his super-bluesy, codeine-drenched raps. (“Purple Stuff” was recently named on this blog as one of the top 100 Houston songs ever, while “Just a Dog” might make it once it has been out for five years.)

Moe is the fourth of the 15 or so original members of the Screwed Up Click to pass away before turning 40, joining murdered brothers Fat Pat and Big Hawk and founder DJ Screw. (Big Mello, a later addition to the Click, died in a 2002 car wreck.)

A benefit is scheduled for tomorrow night at Venue (719 Main). All proceeds from the door will be donated to Moe’s family. Doors open at nine. – John Nova Lomax